VIRGINIA: Call Secretary of Ag to Keep Farmers Markets Open!

Virginians: Keep Farmers Markets Open

As you may know, the State of Virginia has declared a state of emergency in response to COVID 19. We have heard reports of uncertainty regarding how this affects the operations of farmers markets. The Virginia Farmers’ Market Association (VAFMA) reminds us that,

“Like grocery stores and other food retail outlets, farmers markets serve an essential function as a vital source of fresh fruits and vegetables and food staples for our community. Compared to most grocery stores, farmers market produce has a much shorter supply chain and minimal handling from field to market, and the outdoor, open-air setting of farmers markets offers optimal ventilation and sunlight for shopping in an unconfined space. Farmers markets provide direct access to healthy, nutritious foods, while also supporting the livelihoods of local farmers, food makers, and chefs.”

Please see below for more details on how to take action if you’re in Virginia.

Take Action

If you’re a Virginia resident, contact the Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, Bettina Ring, and urge her to equate Virginia Farmers Markets with grocery stores and other retail outlets for the purposes of COVID19 containment policies.

A phone call is much more effective than an email. And remember to keep the conversation polite and to-the-point.

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